What Can You Do in Williamsburg?

Williamsburg, Virginia is an area rich in history, culture, and strikingly beautiful scenery. Located in the Historic Triangle of the eastern United States, Williamsburg is densely packed with attractions sure to entertain anyone, regardless of age or interests. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, outdoor activities, live entertainment, or simply wish to explore the soul of the city, Williamsburg can provide.

Historic Sites to Visit in Williamsburg

Williamsburg’s claim to fame is its history. The city offers plenty of options for those eager to explore colonial America.

Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is the city’s most popular attraction and the largest living history museum in the world. This “living history” museum offers tours guided by real-life interpreters who take visitors through 18th-century street scenes and neighborhoods, replicating life in the colonial US before the Revolutionary War. It’s a fantastic place for anyone interested in experiencing the life and culture of our nation’s early days in a unique and engaging manner.

Jamestown Settlement

For those seeking to explore a historical event closer to the founding of America, look no further than Jamestown Settlement. This living history museum offers visitors a glimpse at the area’s earliest days—the first successful British settlement in the New World. The site focuses on the experiences of members of the Powhatan tribe, English colonists, and African men and women, all within a 17th-century setting. Visitors can explore the museum through wooden galleries, films, exhibits, and outdoor replicas, allowing them to travel back in time to experience an interactive colonial America.

Jamestown Island

On the banks of the James River lies Jamestown Island—the site of America’s first permanent English settlement (Jamestown) founded in 1607. Visitors can explore four centuries of history on this island. The highlight here is Historic Jamestowne, managed by the National Park Service. It’s the best spot to get detailed knowledge about Jamestown and early colonial culture from knowledgeable interpreters. The island also offers several recreation activities and historic artifacts at other attractions such as the Jamestown Glasshouse and Lori Shop.

Bacon’s Castle

Bacon’s Castle—originally known as “Arthur Allen’s Brick House”—is thought to be the oldest standing brick house in Virginia. This iconic landmark was built in the late 1700s and is historically known for being a symbol of defiance during Virginia’s most tumultuous period—the Rebellion of Bacon in 1676. Visitors can explore this three-story building guided by knowledgeable staff members giving insight on historical, architectural, and archaeological exhibits throughout the castle walls.

Nature & Outdoors

For those who prefer to escape into nature and explore the scenic outdoors, Williamsburg provides plenty of options to get outdoors and connect with nature.

Golfing

One popular outdoor activity in Williamsburg is golfing. The city is home to numerous golf courses built over spectacular expanses of lovely terrain. The design of these courses allows locals and tourists alike to explore nature while enjoying their favorite pastime alongside gentle streams, lush woods, and rolling hills (this is definitely my personal favorite way to relax!).

Kayaking

If you’d prefer to get a little wetter on your adventures through Williamsburg, try Kayaking! With Waterman’s Business College on-site (which offers kayaking lessons as well as rentals), kayaking is easily one of the most popular tourist activities in town. Whether you’re an avid kayaker hopping from spot to spot or a beginner looking for some waterside fun, Williamsburg provides peaceful lagoons, pleasant creeks, and rivers with exciting rapids!

Biking

For those wishing to explore on two wheels rather than two water wings, Williamsburg has plenty of biking options available! The city features plenty of bike trails dotted across lakeside landscapes, pine forests, and rural outskirts interspersed with plenty of stops for picnic breaks and scenic views.

Entertainment & Shopping

Though sometimes overshadowed by history and nature attractions, Williamsburg also offers plenty of places to shop and enjoy entertainment experiences sure to please any traveler!

Shopping at Williamsburg Marketplace

The Williamsburg Marketplace offers everything from souvenirs and home goods to clothing and electronics at budget friendly prices. Whether you’re looking for gifts or simply wish to pick up something special for yourself or a family member, you won’t leave empty handed! With so many stores packed into one marketplace, it’s guaranteed that you’ll be occupied all day here.

Entertainment at King’s Mill

Should your day trip require more active entertainment than shopping, head over to King’s Mill for some serious excitement! From roller coasters and live shows to water rides and thrill machines, this amusement park has something for everyone! There are plenty of activities here; you might even forget how long you’ve been here when it comes time to leave! Make sure you allot plenty of time while planning your visit if you want to make it to all of their awesome attractions!

Conclusion

Williamsburg is a unique city nestled in between nature reserves, historic monuments, and beautiful trails. Its blend of old-fashioned American culture and new age city life creates an exciting mix that draws people from all corners of the world to explore its many attractions. Whether you’re looking for a place to recreate or researching cultural happenings of days gone by, Williamsburg is well worth visiting for a getaway that packs a ton of fun into one small town!